Harris 61-Stop opens under fresh change, reliable service

Bob Boyce and his wife Cyndy recently took over ownership of Harris 61-Stop, which will be managed by B. Boyce and Brenda Olson (pictured) who have pledged to offer a fresh change for Harris residents and commuters traveling to and from the Cities. Photos by Jon Tatting

Bob Boyce and his wife Cyndy recently took over ownership of the store, 43628 Ginger Ave., Harris, which will be managed by B. Boyce and Brenda Olson who have pledged to offer a fresh change for Harris residents and commuters traveling to and from the Cities.

They have already completed many of the interior and exterior changes, most notably the addition of 24/7 pay-at-the-pump gas pumps. For those in need of refreshments or nourishments, Harris 61-Stop offers fresh, quick lunch options as well as freshly brewed coffee, fresh bakery items from the Rush City Bakery, daily and local newspapers and a large selection of beverages. Bob said all of the changes were done to offer a cleaner, convenient and more reliable service for the store’s customers.

Bob, who grew up eating Stuga cheeseburgers, cutting the town grass and being mentored by his grandpa Stan Pieterick on the softball field, is thrilled to be coming back to Harris. “I love Harris,” he said. “Some of the best memories I have growing up were here.”

The newest convenience store in the Chisago County area opened Feb. 1 at 43628 Ginger Ave., Harris. Many interior and exterior changes have been completed, most notably the addition of 24/7 pay-at-the-pump gas pumps.

Together, Bob and Brenda know what it takes to make the store successful. Brenda will be opening at 4 a.m. Monday through Friday and is excited to meet and greet the local residents. The coffee/snack bar is now complete, allowing customers an opportunity to sit while they drink their coffee or eat their pizza or hot dog.

Brenda’s fiance, Nic Malchow, has been instrumental in all of the physical changes inside and outside the store. None of this would be possible without Nic, who’s played a huge part in the store’s successful opening and will continue to keep the store looking and running smoothly.

In addition to Bob Boyce, Brenda Olson and Nic Malchow, Harris 61-Stop employees include many family members and local residents who share the same enthusiasm.

Whenever possible, local vendors and distributors were used and will continue to furnish the store. Support from friends and neighbors will help everyone be successful, as Bob feels it’s very important in keeping it local.

“We have been welcomed to Harris by every business in town, as well as so many residents. It has been a great start,” said Bob. “We have taken many requests from customers for items they would like to see in the store, and we will continue to honor as many requests as possible.”

The store is planning an official grand opening later this spring, featuring many “61 themed specials.” Watch its Facebook page for official details. Harris 61-Stop T-shirts are now available at the store and expected to go quick.

In addition to fuel, the store offers a variety of snacks, milk, pop and a good selection of grocery items. Harris 61-Stop also offers fresh pizza, hot dogs, Deli Express Grab and Go food, an ATM, propane exchange, fresh coffee, fresh hot cookies, a cappuccino machine, fountain pop and everyday 61-cent canned pop. The store will have a variety of specials available all year long.

The official winter hours are Monday through Friday, 4 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The store will hold a grand opening April 1 to 7.

For more information, call the store at 651-674-2891 or visit www.harris61stop.com. Harris 61-Stop’s Facebook page also keeps fans posted on the progress.